Henry Sy Foundation promotes inclusive education

Revitalizing the Philippine School for the Deaf

The Magna Carta for Disabled Persons in the Philippines guarantees the rehabilitation, self-development, and self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities. The nation offers educational support to disabled individuals from elementary through higher education, encompassing vocational and technical training as well.

Among these institutions is the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) located in Pasay City. For over a century, this school has exemplified how education can empower and unleash the potential of individuals with various disabilities, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives.

While serving as a symbol of the Philippines' enduring dedication to inclusive education, PSD, one of the oldest institutions for the deaf in Southeast Asia, faces the challenges brought by the passage of time and wear, hindering its ability to fully carry out its mission.

The school suffers from a lack of essential facilities and accessibility features, including makeshift classrooms, worn-out hallways, limited space for vocational training, insufficient furniture, deteriorating walls and ceilings, damaged tiles and faucets, and inadequate lighting. Additionally, it is susceptible to flooding due to drainage issues, and there is only one operational restroom with a broken door infested with termites.

Revitalizing a legacy

In a transformative partnership, the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City joined forces to breathe new life into the Senior High School building and a four-story, 12-classroom structure. This initiative, executed under the DepEd's adopt-a-school program, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in revitalizing educational infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

Previously hindered by infrastructural limitations, the century-old school now features enhanced learning spaces dedicated to various subjects, including dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance. A dance studio with a dressing room and a conference room were also refurbished.

To enhance safety and accessibility, ramps and railings were installed throughout the campus, ensuring ease of movement for all students. Aside from revitalizing 10 classrooms, the SM group also refurbished the conference rooms, and the lobby with a reception area to provide a comfortable environment.

Helping instill good hygiene and encourage healthy habits, a handwashing station, and separate male and female toilets were rehabilitated with clean, functional cubicles, urinals, and PWD-friendly facilities.

The covered court was restored with a spacious stage, creating a conducive space for outdoor learning and recreation.

The rehabilitation of the facilities at the PSD was undertaken, not just to address the physical challenges but also to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive. The project stands as a testament to the SM and Henry Sy Foundations’ continued pursuit of inclusivity and its commitment to empowering differently-abled individuals through education.